
SMSL
SMSL DL200
~$189
Estimated price · may vary by retailer
A feature-rich challenger that offers incredible value. It uses the newer ESS ES9039Q2M chip and provides high power output. It is often cited as a 'Topping DX5 killer' because it offers similar specs and performance for nearly half the price.
Specifications
Things to Know
- ⚠Menu system via the 7-segment display is cryptic and hard to memorize.
- ⚠Headphone output jacks are on the front, but line-out switching requires the remote or menu diving.
- ⚠Some units exhibit a 'pop' sound when switching sample rates (firmware dependent).
Reviews
“At $190 one can have a state-of-the-art DAC plus a transparent headphone amp that can drive almost all the headphones out there... Balanced TRS pre outs produce slightly better SINAD than unbalanced RCA outs.”
— AudioScienceReview (jkim)
“The build quality is nice and it has a heft to the chassis that other SMSL stuff in this price bracket doesn't have.”
— AudioScienceReview (jamesmafyew)
Video Review
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